Every piece of clothing you bring should complement every other item or have at least two uses (e.g., sandals double as slippers, a scarf as a shoulder wrap).

Tops: Bring two or three T-shirts (or buy overseas), one or two short-sleeved blouses, and one or two long-sleeved shirts. Long-sleeved shirts with sleeves that roll up can double as short-sleeved shirts.

Pants and shorts: Dark-colored pants don’t show dirt or wrinkles. If you bring shorts, one pair is probably enough, ideal for staying cool in a resort town or your hotel room. Few European women wear shorts. To avoid stares, consider bringing a pair of Capri pants instead.

Shoes: Bring one pair of comfortable walking shoes. European women don’t wear a lot of sneakers so if you want to fit in, consider another type of shoe. For a second pair, consider sandals or dark leather flats. Before you leave home, walk several miles in any footwear you’ll be taking to be sure they’re broken in.

Socks, underwear, pajamas, and swimsuit: Fast drying is the key because wash and wear makes for less packing. Cotton/nylon-blend socks dry faster than 100-percent cotton, which loses its softness when air-dried. Try silk, microfiber, or stretch lace underwear, which breathe more than nylon. Bring at least two bras (what if you leave one hanging over your shower rail by accident?). A sports bra can double as a hiking/sunning top. Shorts or lightweight pajama bottoms with a T-shirt will get you modestly to the bathroom down the hall. You don’t need a bikini to try sunbathing topless on European beaches — local women with one-piece bathing suits just roll down the top.

Jacket: Neutral colors (black, beige, navy) look more European than bright colors.

Accessories: Scarves give your limited wardrobe just the color it needs. They dress up your outfit, are lightweight and easy to pack, and, if purchased in Europe, make a great souvenir. Sleeveless vests and button-up cardigans can be worn alone or mixed-and-matched with other clothes to give you several different looks as well as layers for cold weather. Most women feel safe wearing engagement/wedding rings while traveling, but leave other valuable or flashy jewelry at home. A few pairs of inexpensive earrings are fun to bring.